In great sadness, and with some relief, we sent Tyler back to God last night. Tyler had been diagnosed with lymphoma in June and had been battling with it since. Tyler was 10 in December.

Tyler was my very best friend, my confidant, my loyal companion and my working partner. He made my laugh, cheer, and know unconditional love. He stood by me when I was sick, when I was sad, when I wanted to hike, swim and compete.

I will never forget how he learned to swim and did his "stealth rottweiler" stroke and then would roll in the sand to get the water off of his coat -- and then jump back in the water to get the sand off of his coat; or when he wanted to swim in January and went through the ice (and I went in right after him); how he cornered people in the bathroom who were afraid of him; how he stood guard over me when I had pneumonia; how he protected me from the fierce fireworks on the lake; his love for herding sheep; his burning desire to convince me that he "won't hurt the kitty if we let him kiss him, just once", his ongoing willingness to please (me) - that led us to lots of fun in the obedience, agility and rally rings; our trips to the Nationals -- twice! -- ; how he peed on Davis' leg while evaluating dogs in Newark. :)

In addition to a wonderful companion, Tyler was an asset to the rescue groups we supported for the last 8 years. He was always there to assist in evaluations -- and to show them "how it's done".

Many people will remember how they met Tyler -- and most people won't forget him, because he was always with me.

Going forward, he will be with me in my heart. I found myself calling other dogs "T" this morning. He is, forever, my main man, and I am now grateful that he is AT PEACE, pain free and in good light.

Rest well, my boy. You worked hard all of your life for me. You deserve the peace.